Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue and Minister of State with responsibility for new market development Martin Heydon are leading a two-day virtual trade mission to the UK.

The virtual events are being run in conjunction with Bord Bia and will include engagements with retail and food service customers.

“Britain remains Ireland’s most important agri food export destination, and vice versa,” Minister McConalogue said.

“That seamless trading relationship will inevitably change on 1 January, but the Irish food and drinks sector remains committed to servicing this valuable market.”

Retail and food service

The Minister said the engagement with “leading British retail and food service companies” would focus on the strength of Ireland’s quality, sustainable food offering.

In addition to the meetings with key customers of Irish food products, the Minister participated in a virtual trade reception hosted by the Irish ambassador to the UK Adrian O’Neill.

Minister Heydon commented: “I know that the annual embassy trade reception has been a highlight in the London food industry calendar for many years.

"I want to congratulate Ambassador O’Neill, his embassy team and Bord Bia London for successfully converting this to a stimulating online event.

“These engagements offer a timely opportunity to build new contacts and insights in a virtual format.”

Almost two in every three UK shoppers are concerned that the current Brexit situation will have a negative effect on the cost of food and drink, according to Bord Bia research.

Half of shoppers are concerned about the future quality and availability of the food and drink they buy.

Alternative

Bord Bida CEO Tara McCarthy said the research showed Irish food and drink is considered the best alternative to UK produce, with 85% of shoppers open to choosing Irish produce.

McCarthy said: “This is higher than any other country of origin outside of the UK. While we are encouraged by these findings, we are also acutely aware of the costly and complex trading environment we are facing in a post-Brexit Britain.

“This week’s UK trade mission has provided a timely platform to discuss the challenges facing Ireland and the UK, two mutually dependent export markets, and how we can continue to work together to address common concerns.”

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